Melanagromyza fabae Spencer, 1973
M. fabae is almost identical to M. eupatorii Spencer, 1957, the only known difference is the larger size of fabae (Spencer, 1973). Therefore, the species status must be regarded as unclear. The dense proclinate frontorbital setulae and the mat mesonotum is present in both species but in combination with the male genitalia reliable for separating fabae from other Melanagromyza species.
Wing length: 2.6 - 2.7 mm.
BIONOMICS
The larvae are stem and root borers. The oviposition site is not exactly known but Spencer, 1973 suspected the eggs were laid directly into the stem. There is only a single generation per year (Spencer, 1973).
HOST PLANT
Vicia faba L.
DISTRIBUTION
Known from UK (Spencer, 1973) and Germany (von Tschirnhaus, 2000).
ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE
Spencer, 1973 reported locally dense infestation and severe damage. The larvae apparently affect their host plants strongly leading to defoliation and root decay. Since 1973 no further records came to knowledge of the author. Thus currently the species can only be considered as a potential pest.